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locations
locations
Avis Isle (ON World)
Avis Isle (or Avisle, as popularly known) is a singular floating island surrounded by a sea of sky. Technically the smallest region of Duocaeli, it's vast and bustling regardless; as a trading hub, merchants and technology flow in and out of the island constantly, akin to a hive of busy bees.The land's attribute is Wind, and the NPCs are hardened wanderers, adventurous and mercenary, but every guild still has a strong foothold in the Guild Hub. The land mass is forested, with tall peaks and weather that changes on a dime, but generally Avisle is considered a beginner-friendly zone!
Land masses are visible faintly in the distance, but currently unreachable.
> Avisle City
While there are scattered, small ports everywhere, most housing, shops, taverns and clinics are centralized in Avisle City, where the buildings are a chaotic blend of materials (local wood and metals/stones traded from other isles), in various architectural styles. A few key areas stand out:
Town Square. At the center of the square is a magnificent sculptural fountain—a colossal elephant flanked by birds. The symbol of an elephant learning to fly with its ears is the pride of Avisle, a testament to how ingenuity and determination are the heart of adventure.
The square is lined with verdant trees that flower in spring, and the bustle of music and street performers, who will pull strangers into vigorous dance (/dance) at any time. Gamewide festivities are typically hosted in the Town Square, which also serves as the initial landing pad for all beginner players. …Usually.
Most importantly, the Town Square houses the Guild Hub, which run by the Interguild Alliance (IGA) and accommodates all of Duocaeli's guilds. Each of the Grand 5 has its own wing where the guild birds are available to help tutor new studies, as well as common areas for collaboration, to practice skills, and to compete. The Hub also handles administrative tasks such as registration and record keeping, and coordinates Special Dungeon Raids and Quest Board Postings.
Marketplace. The bustling heart of a trading port city, filled with streaming, eye-catching banners, noise, and the smell of street foods. Here players will find basic weaponry, armor, provisions, and travel gear, as well as general goods such as clothing, foodstuffs, medicine, flowers, gifts, and souvenirs. In Avisle, merchants are open to bartering for time and services, but they're tough and don't take kindly to scammers. It's also said that rogues favor the elements here, and with a gentle breeze, you may just find your pocket money has gone with the wind…
Innovation Hall. Avisle values growth: the exchange of ideas as well as goods, improving form as well as function. To that end, this massive alley is crammed with those trying to one-up their competitors in various workshops, schools, and ateliers.
Armed with the funding of the Grand 5, experimental energy is especially palpable here—there's the constant, faint thrum of warding spells, which are meant to contain the sometimes volatile experiments going on. Of course, even with the best precautions, some accidents may happen from time to time: you may emerge from the hall with the colors of your clothing altered. Did your hair just get longer? Why is your voice suddenly an octave higher than usual? Thankfully, with the wards in place all effects are harmless and temporary, and everyone is welcome to practice their crafts here.
Nightlife District. A transit city never sleeps. Some businesses only light up once daytime establishments have closed for the evening. This district is understandably rowdy and is separated from the rest of the city with a row of strikingly tall, flowering jasmine trees which grow up to 75ft. The natural fragrance of these trees are said to slightly lower one’s inhibitions the way alcohol might, and is a popular scent note used among local perfumers.
- Midnight Corridor (North): Offers a range of activities from benign to hedonistic: food stalls, late-night diners and bars to gambling parlors and drug dens, many in the guise of nightclubs.
- Dusk Corridor (South): The ERP hub. ON-worlders come here to indulge in carnal delights not always available to them on the OFF world. The district is lined with pleasure houses, themed love hotels, communal baths, and other facilities meant to encourage physical intimacy.
> Avis Isle Outskirts ★ NEW
Windhaven Woodlands. The verdant heart of Avisle stretching from coniferous forests in the north to broad-leaved groves in the south. The Woodlands bracket the city, and is paved with multiple trails for the adventurer and greenthumb. The northern, cooler climate is home to creatures such as bloobettes and hummingshrews. As wanderers travel further south, they may also come across a rare gemwalker.
While the Woodlands nourish most of the townships on Avisle with materials and food, adventurers rarely wander too deep into the woods as they can be quite confusing to navigate. The trees like to stretch their roots multiple times a day, often altering paths that characters have taken. At times branches will weave themselves together so tightly, it blocks out most sunlight. It’s very possible to get lost here, but those with keen navigation skills will notice that the wind always seems to flow in the direction of Avisle at the beginning and middle of the hour, like clockwork.
Aria's Grove. Located just south of the city and hidden within the deepest part of the Woodlands, Aria’s Grove is like the botanic equivalent of a geode. As the name suggests, this area is filled with crystalline formations both tree-like and abstract, and even the most glass-like ones are nigh-indestructible. Whenever a breeze blows through the grove, the structures produce a tinkling melody, like a living windchime. The gemwalkers are far more common here, and can be bottled as temporary quest companions—they will light your way, and guide you in the right direction should you become lost. However, they will always return to the Grove; after a day has passed, they will mysteriously vanish from your inventory and materialize in their natural home.
Bigge Tunelle. Within the mysterious depths of Windhaven Woodlands is an ancient tree that long ago tumbled to the earth, leaving behind a vast hollowed tunnel. Ever since the locals can remember, the tunnel has had a powerful gust of wind running through it, making it near impossible to traverse the tunnel. That is, if you're on the side where the wind exits. Those wandering close to where the wind enters might find themselves getting sucked into a weightless tunnel experience before being spit out the other side. It's possible to get stuck within the air currents of the tunnel itself; being aligned with wind may make it easier to traverse, but everyone else should be prepared to be billowed by the suction and blown about! Try not to hit anything (or any monsters) on the way down.
Dandelion Fields. In this migratory resting ground for wind whales, dandelions grow as tall as trees in these vast fields, stretching out from fertile ground toward the skies. Anyone walking through the field better be careful to hold onto their butts as the dandelions occasionally tear free from the ground entirely, taking some of the earth with it. There are plenty of miniature islands kept afloat by dandelions in the air above the fields, and those brave enough to platform between them can earn dandelion seeds, which can be sold or used to used to make speed-increasing charms and ointments that alleviate stress. Rumour has it that these fields are the originators of all the floating isles (but it's probably not true).
Starstuff Crater. In the furthest reaches of the isle, the land suddenly gives way to a crater that rivals the size of Avis Isle City itself, apparently from the impact of a falling star long ago. Rising from the bottom of the crater are hundreds of tall earthy spires that house an array of bird species and alien flora from the dissolved starstuff. Cool, clean water pools in the rocky crags, and those with an alignment with darkness may notice that their powers are stronger here, nearly uncomfortably so. Meanwhile, those aligned with light may feel ill at ease, and drain of mana more quickly.
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Crane City (OFF World)
Crane City, the Good Fortune city, is a bustling metropolis full of life and every modern amenity you could ask for. Styled after a prototypical modern North American city, it has all the great necessities: a robust school system including a university, a booming economy for both traditional and nontraditional lifestyles, and just the right number of sketchy alleyways. There’s always the sound of something zipping nearby with its efficient rail transit system, and the latest gossip is impossible to avoid. People here sure love to talk! Come and explore the city and all that it has to offer–just don’t expect any funny magic business. That’s the stuff of daydreams, you know?> Domus Homus
To most who travel to Crane City, Domus Hosus is a tourist attraction–a beautiful piece of art nouveau architecture reminiscent of perhaps Belgium that has a certain air of mysticism even from the outside. There’s always a few fashionable teenagers using the building as a backdrop, but to you, dear worldwalker? This is your home. Only those who are able to cross between the ON world and the OFF world have the clearance to live here, admitting you via smartphone.
Important to note: Once inside, that thrum of magical energy will once again begin to pulse in your veins. Here, the fantastical is possible once more.
But the magic isn't just restricted to your veins, it's in the house all around you: the chimes greet you happily when you come home, its tiles flip over and jump to deliver items to you, and it seems much taller and wider than it looks on the outside, never running out of space. In fact, space seems to work funny in Domus Homus? The Training Hall was on the 2nd floor last week, but now it’s on the 7th? And while Dodo can usually direct you as necessary, it's not perfect and you might end up knocking on someone else’s door? Surely Dodo doesn’t have any agenda there, right?
Regardless, tenants have taken to calling the building itself Dodo, after domus (Latin for home), and if you do the same, surely you’ll have your every need met. Mostly!
Rooms. Generously sized and pre-furnished with the necessities (a queen-sized bed, a wardrobe, and vanity), each character will be able to decorate their rooms to their heart’s content. But be careful: that room is their own, but it has a tendency to shuffle around. Dodo believes in getting to know all your neighbors, after all. Every month, rooms get shuffled around into different suite units.
A suite is typically made of 3-4 different rooms. Those characters will be expected to share a comfortable living space, including a lounge (outfitted with a seating area, a television, and other common appliances), kitchen, and one bathroom.
Banquet Hall. While you’re free to cook in your own suites, Dodo doesn’t want anyone to go hungry. Staffed with NPCs (or perhaps even your fellow PCs), the kitchen is always serving up food. Custom orders are available, though otherwise a menu is served with different cuisines on rotation. Rumor has it that Nacho Night is by far the most popular.
Training Hall. For those who are still trying to get a hang of their powers and weapons, the training hall is equipped with a number of facilities. Spell books and practice weapons are available on loan, and meditation rooms are available for those who really need to focus to get their magic just right. Somehow, no matter the chaos caused inside, small damages always get mended by your next visit. If you cause considerable damage to a facility, let the mods know!
Library. Reference materials are available in the expansive library that stretches across an entire floor, with shelves that nearly touch the ceiling. Patrons will be able to find books and tomes that cover topics about both the ON world and the OFF world–you know, if you like doing things old school and don’t want to Google? Whatever floats your boat! There’s also a ton of comfy chairs and spaces just stock full of pillows. No wonder it’s also just a super popular nap spot.
Divination Tower. While everything in Dodo’s command has a tendency to move, there is one constant: the Divination Tower will always be at the very top of the building. Perhaps it has something to do with being as close to the stars as possible. It’s a beautiful space, full of different divination mechanisms that can be used for fortune telling–of both the past and the future. Perhaps if you tweak things just right, you’ll be able to peer into the fates of those closest to you.
However, it also has another uncanny ability: sometimes it manages to project updates and news that come from the ON world, delivered diligently and sincerely. It’s almost as though that realm is trying to exert its will over this space… But wouldn’t that be silly?
> crane city
COASTLINE.
Crane City itself is situated neatly on an island—haha no, it’s not floating or anything, what are you on? It’s just that walk far enough in any direction and you’ll be met with the crash of waves and the ever so slightly salty sea breeze. Cliffs line the East side of the island, whereas the West enjoys the soft, plush sand. Either are beautiful places to enjoy a glorious sunrise or sunset. Dotted with the occasional lifeguard tower or crab shack, it feels like time slows down a little here at the edges—but that’s not possible, right?
Occasionally, you might wander across a site that appears to be one end of a bridge. You can’t explore much further though, what with all the signs indicating construction. Be careful, okay? You clearly aren’t meant to head there yet.
SEDGE DISTRICT.
Named after the term for a group of cranes, the Sedge District is where the community comes together for its needs. Boasting an assortment of government offices (including a DMV), a hospital, a daycare, a sanctuary for elderly pets, and the largest park in the city, it’s a cozy part of town where people mill about their day and perhaps get a few important things done. The busy mayor of Crane City, a mysterious individual who’s notoriously hard to get a meeting with, is almost an urban legend around these parts—listen closely and you’ll hear the sound of calendar notifications going off, and the pattering of expensive shoes late for a meeting.
FINANCE DISTRICT.
Where business people do… their… business things! Taxes, audits, uhhh, wealth portfolio management—this is where the money magic happens! A series of tall, sleek, almost obelisk-like buildings seem to compete with each other for attention here, broken up only by the occasional falafel stand where haggard employees retreat for a lunch away from their sad little cubicle. Isn’t this the life you always dreamed of? Though rumor has it that the company behind Duocaeli is looking to open up a headquarters here—or, wait, maybe they already have? Doesn’t seem like anyone knows where it is, though… Huh.
CICONII ACADEMY.
Serving the Pre-Kindergarten to High School population, Ciconii Academy is for Crane City’s young scholars. With a comfortable campus, it’s the premiere school for parents to send their little and not-so-little tots during the day. Though it seems like all crane-related names seem to have already been nabbed by the time that Ciconii chose its namesake and mascot… Instead, we behold the mighty Storks.
Gruidae University.
Gruidae University is a prominent research institution that makes its home in Crane City. With a sprawling campus and facilities for students to get their hands dirty on countless projects—state of art labs, community gardens, even an on-campus autoshop and maker’s space—it’s well earned its prestige. It happily opens its doors to community members, but it’s also quick to deny any nefarious rumors of an underground connecting tunnel system. Though some insist that it’s real—everyone has something they’d like to hide under the surface, right?
bird walk promenade.
While there are many places to shop in Crane City, the Bird Walk Promenade is popular mall for its sheer size, variety, and convenience, located just a rail ride away from the Domus Hosus. Whatever (legal) item you’re looking for, you’re certain to find it in all the shopfronts, stalls, and popup vendors that line this incredibly popular, fashionable street. Hungry? Stop by the fine dining restaurants or the more reasonably priced food court. Looking for a fun distraction? Check out the escape rooms, arcade, and movie theater. With a long walkway that stretches multiple blocks, it’s a popular place for buskers and street performers to make a buck. It’s also a popular date location, with its scenic little bridge area and cherry blossom tree-lined walkways.
There’s also a cat cafe. This is a fact of vital importance. It’s also booked weeks in advance so make a reservation already, slowpoke.
batata district.
Oh come on, it’s a city. You think everyone’s shiny and perfect everywhere? The Batata District, located closer to the outskirts of the city, is named for the vaguely potato-esque shape of its unofficial boundary line. Maybe it’s a little less curated for the picturesque (what’s that smell?) but don’t be mistaken—they say this is where the real business of the city gets done. Sketchier deals can be struck in these back alleys, whether they be some party drugs or some experimental thing someone got from their third cousin’s coworker who knows a guy that works at the university labs but sshhh, you didn’t hear it from me. Don’t you know? Fortune favors the bold.
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